Virginia Renaissance Faire

Unlike most Renaissance-themed events, VaRF chose to be more than a costume party in a shopping mall. We believe that people really do want something more for their money and that ‘something’ is to come away having learned or experienced something new. Learning is personal; it’s a growth experience and its with you always.
We address this philosophy with a mandate to offer something suitable for all ages, abilities and cultures. To make this an affordable experience. To provide more activities than a family can do in a single day and to keep the show fresh each weekend.
The faire uses street theater combined with period activities and a cast of well researched and fully developed costumed characters to bring history to life. Each area of the faire presents demonstrations, has hand-on activities and a cast member ready to show you how.
The brainstorm of our Education Coordinator, the Quest is a To-Do list, each for a specific interest and/or grade level that walks you through the faire, directing the seeker to a specific set of activities. When completed, the bearer receives a certificate proclaiming them a member of the Merchant Adventurers. Often, when the completed Quest page is taken to school, the child is asked to explain their activity to the class and receives extra credit for their efforts. This year, they can also purchase a Merchant Adventurer Patch.
Over the years, Quests have evolved beyond the original intent for school children. In Roanoke, we discovered that Seniors picked up one of every group and used them to maximize their experience so we’ve expanded the range to include adult Quests.
Between 80 and 100 artisans and crafters help create our ‘town’ We have a wide variety both period and modern foods, including vegan and vegetarian options. Many of the vendors also provide demonstrations of how they make their wares and what they would be used for in the 16th C. The streets are filled with small acting troops, acrobats, jugglers and magicians, just as they would be on a faire day along the Queen’s Progress.